In a vibrant parliamentary democracy like India, opposition parties play an equally important role as the ruling government. Their primary duty is to question, criticize, and bring attention to key public issues, ensuring that governance remains transparent, accountable, and responsive. The opposition is, in many ways, the soul of democracy. Without its active participation, parliamentary proceedings become hollow and one-sided. However, this role must be exercised with a sense of responsibility—criticism should be constructive, debates should be well-reasoned, and disruptions must be avoided for the greater good.
The current Monsoon Session of Parliament, which began on July 21, 2025, comes at a crucial juncture. It follows two significant national events—the tragic Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed 26 innocent lives, and the successful Operation Sindoor, an Indian Army-led counter-terrorism initiative that showcased the nation’s strength and resilience. On the opening day, the Parliament paid solemn tributes to the victims of the Pahalgam attack, underscoring the gravity of the session's backdrop.
In this context, it is imperative for both the ruling and opposition benches to engage in meaningful discussions rather than devolving into confrontational politics. Unfortunately, the first two days of the session have seen repeated disruptions and sloganeering, wasting valuable parliamentary time. While the opposition’s demand for a discussion on the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor is legitimate, their simultaneous obstruction of proceedings undermines the very debate they seek.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described this session as a "festival of joy," marking India's collective strength in the face of terror. However, instead of participating in a unified acknowledgment of Operation Sindoor’s success, some opposition leaders, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, have gone as far as to project the operation as a failure. Such rhetoric not only distorts facts but also weakens India's image internationally. In a democracy, critical scrutiny is essential, but when it begins to mirror partisanship or misrepresentation, it becomes counterproductive.
Moreover, national security should never be politicized. The opposition is well within its rights to question the government on lapses leading to the Pahalgam attack or the pace of the investigation. But that scrutiny must be grounded in facts and presented in the spirit of cooperation, not confrontation. India’s enemies gain strength when its parliamentarians appear divided over matters of national interest.
This session is being closely watched—not only by Indian citizens through live telecasts but also by global observers. The decorum, dignity, and discipline of the Houses are at stake. Parliament is not a battleground for partisan theatrics but a forum for sober debate, solution-oriented discussion, and policy-driven dialogue. Actions that reduce its functioning to that of a “fish market” only erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
For this monsoon session to achieve its potential, both ruling and opposition parties must recognize their shared responsibility. Issues such as economic recovery, employment generation, social welfare, education, and infrastructure require urgent attention. Constructive cooperation, not chaotic confrontation, is the need of the hour.
In conclusion, the Monsoon Session of 2025 presents an opportunity for India’s democracy to rise above division and discord. Let this be a time when elected representatives set aside personal rivalries and political agendas to serve the people who elected them. A dignified, efficient, and result-oriented parliament is not just desirable—it is essential for the health and credibility of the world's largest democracy.

Email:-------------------onkoul2019@gmail.com